DeWalt vs Makita Rotary Tools: Which One Should I Get?

Hey everyone, I'm in the market for a new rotary tool. I do a lot of detail work on wood and metal, and I've narrowed it down to the DeWalt DW660 and the Makita RT0701C. I know they're both good brands, but I want to hear from people who've actually used them. Which one would you recommend for someone who does a mix of cutting, grinding, and polishing? Also, any thoughts on the variable speed control? I've heard Makita has a better dial, but DeWalt might have more power. Thanks!

I've been using the Makita RT0701C for years on job sites. That thing is a workhorse. The variable speed dial is super smooth and precise, and it's got plenty of power for even the toughest jobs. I've dropped it, kicked it, and it just keeps going. The only downside is that it's a bit larger and heavier than some others, but that's a trade-off for the power. If you're doing fine detail work, you might find it a bit clunky, but it's great for heavy use. I'd go Makita every time.

I'm just a weekend warrior, so I don't need pro-level stuff. I picked up the DeWalt because it was on sale, and honestly, it's been great for my projects. It's compact and light, which is nice for getting into tight spots. The variable speed is decent, but I've noticed the dial isn't as precise as some others. For my occasional use, it's perfect. If you're a pro like Mike, maybe you need the heavier duty Makita, but for a hobbyist, the DeWalt is solid.

I do a lot of woodworking and I've had both. I'll say this: the Makita has a much better collet system. Changing bits is super easy, and the runout is really low, so you get clean cuts. The DeWalt is okay, but the collet can be a bit finicky. Also, the Makita has a built-in LED light that actually helps in dark areas. But the DeWalt is quieter and has less vibration. So it really depends on what you value: precision (Makita) vs comfort (DeWalt). Both are good, but I ended up selling my DeWalt and keeping the Makita because I do more precision work.